The 2025–26 Ashes series officially launches on 21 November, with the opening Test staged at Perth Stadium — a dramatic break from four decades of tradition. For the first time in more than 40 years, the Ashes will not begin at the Gabba, signalling a bold scheduling shift by Cricket Australia and a clear intent to modernise how the marquee contest is presented.
Perth has never hosted an Ashes opener, and choosing it to kick off the series marks a historic moment. The venue, known for its pace-friendly pitch and electric atmosphere, offers a fresh narrative to a rivalry steeped in history. Cricket Australia’s broader strategy is obvious: spread high-profile matches across more cities and tap into the strong cricketing culture of Western Australia. Perth Stadium, with its world-class facilities, was the ideal candidate to reshape the start of the Ashes calendar.
The opening Test will run from 21 to 25 November, followed by a deliberate break before the second match — a day-night Test in Brisbane. The full five-Test series is spaced to allow travel, preparation, and maximum fan engagement:
- Test 1: 21–25 Nov, Perth Stadium, Perth
- Test 2: 4–8 Dec, The Gabba, Brisbane (day-night)
- Test 3: 17–21 Dec, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Test 4: 26–30 Dec, Melbourne Cricket Ground — the Boxing Day Test
- Test 5: 4–8 Jan 2026, Sydney Cricket Ground
The build-up to the series has already brought its own storyline. Pat Cummins, Australia’s regular captain, is set to miss the opening Test due to injury. His absence elevates Steve Smith back into a leadership role, adding an element of intrigue to how Australia will begin their campaign. The hosts are still considered strong favourites at home, but the disruption in leadership could test their balance early on.
Starting the series in Perth may also challenge England in unexpected ways. Traditionally, teams accustomed to opening at Brisbane have time to acclimatise to Australian conditions; Perth offers a very different first examination. The surface is quicker, the bounce steeper, and the environment less forgiving for batters who take time to adjust. England will be under immediate pressure to adapt or risk falling behind right from the outset.
Cricket Australia’s itinerary reflects a long-term scheduling plan, designed to optimise crowd attendance, broadcast reach, and competitive fairness. By moving the Ashes opener west, the board signals a willingness to rethink old patterns and deliver marquee cricket to broader audiences.
The Ashes remains one of sport’s most enduring rivalries, and beginning in Perth injects a sense of unpredictability. With a fresh venue, a reshuffled Australian leadership, and England eager for redemption, the stage is set for a compelling start to a series that promises high drama from the first ball.
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